The Lifespan of a Fact

The Lifespan of a Fact follows a young Harvard graduate who is brought in to verify a celebrated author’s essay for a struggling New York magazine. Their disagreement over truth, artistic freedom, and what it means to be accurate develops into a fast-moving, funny, and intellectually charged conflict. The play examines whether a compelling story can withstand close scrutiny and what matters most when art and facts collide.

This production offers a sharp, timely look at trust, truth, and the sometimes difficult process of getting a story right.

When: October 6–November 8, 2026

Venue: Act II Playhouse

Tickets: Price not available

Run time: Approximately 90 minutes, with no intermission

Ages: The performance contains some strong language.

Cast: Ian Merrill Peakes as John D’Agata, Karen Peakes as Emily Penrose, and Adam Howard as Jim Fingal. Peakes and Peakes are members of Actors’ Equity Association.

Director: Matt Pfeiffer

Production team: Jason Pizzi is the production stage manager, and Delene Beauchamp is the assistant stage manager and assistant production manager. The scenic designer is Dirk Durossette; lighting designer, Lily Fossner; costume designer, Alison Roberts; sound designer, Adam Danoff; props designer, Grace Kyle; scenic painter, E.B. Bradigan; and scenic carpenter, Carl Smith.

Honorary producers: Elizabeth H. Gemmill and Suzanne & Alex Smith-Oscilowski.